In the midst of Advent, we wait. Advent is a season of mystery, of adventure, of “the already and the not yet” surprisingly held together in time and place through the gift of a child. We wait and pray together. God is in the time before—lovingly creating the cosmos, sending his Spirit across the waters of the deep. And, God will come to us in the time after—in a new birth, a new life, and a new hope.
Garrett-Evangelical is in an Advent time. What has come before has been a remarkable time of learning, community, hospitality and friendship. In these in-between days, together we hold the fond remembrance of seasons past even as we share the joyful anticipation of what is to come next. New beginnings require new preparation and the courage of those ready to step into leadership. We trust in God’s future and make way for new expressions of service in tomorrow’s church and world.
In this holiday season, we send you greetings from the in-between realms of Advent. We ask for your prayers. Please join us in holding both the past and the future together in love and hope, and trusting God’s Spirit to steadfastly move across this community. Join us in waiting and preparing, with open and eager hearts, as we take our places in this renewed community God is bringing to life!
On behalf of everyone at Garrett-Evangelical, we wish you the joy that comes from knowing that God is always drawing our past into a new future. “For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.” (Jeremiah 29:11). May the blessings of new life and hope be with you through this season and in the New Year.
Phillip A. Amerson, President
Lallene J. Rector, President-Elect
